Business Details
9 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Pediatric Dentist in San Diego
At Little Star Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing gentle, advanced dental care tailored to children's unique needs. Our board-certified pediatric dentists and orthodontists bring decades of combined experience, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to ensure efficient, patient-centered treatment. We specialize in pediatric sedation dentistry, orthodontic solutions like Invisalign and traditional braces, and advanced laser procedures for lip and tongue ties. Our collaborative approach integrates expertise from lactation consultants, speech therapists, and myofunctional therapists to address airway and sleep-related issues.With a focus on preventive care and early intervention, we create personalized treatment plans to foster lifelong oral health habits. Our team prioritizes comfort and education, ensuring every visit builds confidence in young patients. Located in San Diego, we serve families seeking comprehensive dental care in a welcoming, child-friendly environment. Our commitment to community extends through educational initiatives and partnerships with local healthcare providers. We continuously invest in professional development to stay at the forefront of pediatric dental advancements.
Services
Pediatric Sedation Dentistry
Dental Cleaning
Fluoride Treatments
Orthodontic Braces
Lip Tongue Tie Revision
Space Maintainers
BPA-Free Sealants
SDF Oral Appliances
Special Needs Dentistry
Dental Emergencies
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Board-certified pediatric dentists with advanced training in laser procedures
- Specialized care for lip/tongue ties and airway-related sleep disorders
- Comprehensive orthodontic solutions including Invisalign and traditional braces
- Collaborative approach with lactation consultants and myofunctional therapists
- State-of-the-art technology for efficient, minimally invasive treatments
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
Services
Lip Tongue Tie Revision
Our advanced laser frenectomy procedure treats restrictive lip and tongue ties in infants, children, and adults. Using CO2 laser technology, we release tethered oral tissues with minimal bleeding and discomfort. This treatment improves breastfeeding efficiency, speech development, and oral hygiene while addressing airway issues. Our board-certified specialists collaborate with lactation consultants and myofunctional therapists for comprehensive care.
Pediatric Sedation Dentistry
We offer safe sedation options for anxious or special needs patients. Our methods include nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation administered by experienced pediatric dentists. This service enables children to receive necessary dental treatments in a relaxed state while maintaining safety through continuous monitoring by our trained team.
Orthodontic Braces
Our orthodontic treatments address misaligned teeth and jaw development issues. Options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign clear aligners for teens. Early intervention with palatal expanders and space maintainers helps correct bite problems before they worsen, promoting proper facial development and oral function.
Dental Cleaning
Regular professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup to prevent cavities and gum disease. Our hygienists use child-friendly techniques to educate patients on proper oral hygiene. Fluoride treatments strengthen enamel, while dietary counseling helps families make tooth-healthy choices for long-term dental wellness.
Space Maintainers
Custom-fitted space maintainers preserve proper dental alignment when baby teeth are lost prematurely. These devices prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into empty spaces, ensuring adequate room for permanent teeth eruption. We offer both fixed and removable options tailored to each child's developmental needs.
People
Dr. Najmeh Hannanvash
Pediatric Dentist
Board-certified pediatric dentist with 15+ years of experience, specializing in laser frenectomies and airway-focused dentistry. Completed advanced training at UCSF and Seattle Children's Hospital. Active member of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and International Affiliation of Tongue Tie Professionals.
Dr. Stephen O'Donnell
Pediatric Dentist
Specialist in treating anxious children and patients with special healthcare needs. Completed residency at USC and has extensive hospital experience. Advocate for pediatric oral health policy through congressional advocacy and international dental missions. Expert in multidisciplinary care for complex cases.
Dr. Sarah Borghei
Orthodontist
Board-certified orthodontist with expertise in Invisalign and early orthodontic intervention. Completed advanced education at Roseman University and holds an MBA in dental practice management. Member of the American Board of Orthodontics and San Diego Dental Society.
Dr. Jack Wai Chan
Pediatric Dentist
Specializes in preventive care and treatment for children with special needs. Completed residency at University of Minnesota after practicing general dentistry in underserved communities. Focuses on creating positive dental experiences to establish lifelong oral health habits.
Questions
When should I start cleaning my child's teeth?
Begin cleaning your child's gums with a soft cloth at birth. Introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush when the first tooth erupts, typically around 6 months.
What is the ideal age for a child's first dental visit?
Schedule your child's first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting to establish preventive care routines.
Can teenagers attend appointments independently?
Yes, teenagers aged 13+ can attend routine checkups alone, but parental consent is required for any treatment procedures.
Do you accept dental insurance?
We accept most major dental insurance plans and will assist with claims processing. Payment is required at the time of service with insurance reimbursement handled separately.
What payment options are available?
We accept cash, credit cards, and offer flexible payment plans. Our STAR Course professional training program uses secure online payment through Stripe.
